About the Program
The mission of the Randy Roberts Foundation is to cultivate Florida’s future leaders through promoting civic engagement, public service initiatives, and providing resources to students excelling in those areas. Since 2011, the Civic Scholars program has engaged hundreds of high school students in democracy, providing them firsthand experience and insight into government actions at the local, state, and national levels.
Each fall, High School Juniors from Polk County, Florida are encouraged to apply to the Civic Scholars Program, which offers a sequence of three distinctive learning experiences. Students selected will first participate in the Community Classroom, where students engage with elected officials and explore policy-making during an immersive day-long workshop. Outstanding students from this phase are then selected to participate in the Capital Classroom. These students will travel to Tallahassee, meeting state officials and witnessing the intricacies of state governance. The pinnacle of this program is the Congressional Classroom, a select opportunity for top performers to travel to Washington, D.C. during their senior year. Here, they meet with legislators, government officials, and field experts, engaging firsthand in national-level civics and democracy. This structured pathway offers a unique and enriching experience, fostering leadership and civic engagement skills in Florida's young leaders.
Are you ready to make a difference?
Participate In The Program
Anyone can be a difference maker. If you are - or know - a Polk County Junior who is motivated to learn and collaborate, then we invite you to apply to be a Civic Scholar! Since 2011, this program has empowered hundreds of students by providing them with hands-on experience in civic engagement and policy-making, starting with immersive workshops in the Lakeland community and culminating in potential trips to the State Capitol and Washington, D.C. Through this program, Polk County students develop essential leadership skills, cultivate a passion for public service, and become active participants in shaping Florida's (and our nation's) future.